Student financial fair

Littleton High School Students Participate in Second Annual Financial Literacy Fair

Superintendent Kelly Clenchy is pleased to announce that Littleton High School students recently participated in the school's second annual financial literacy fair.
The financial literacy fair took place on Tuesday, May 21. The event was designed to help students learn how to budget, manage, and spend their money responsibly.
Students were asked to provide their choice of career earlier this year in preparation for the event. On the day of the fair, students received a folio with a career profile, a mock paycheck, an assigned credit score (reflective of their attendance), and a budget worksheet.
During the event, students visited 13 stations where they had to make typical financial decisions they may face as a young adult. Booths included housing, furniture, food, health insurance, clothing, transportation, philanthropy/community service, education, luxuries, insurance (car and renter), savings, investing, and retirement, the Reality Wheel of fortune or misfortune, and budget counseling.
"The financial literacy fair is an amazing event for our students to assume adult responsibility as they prepare to enter the world outside of high school," said Superintendent Clenchy. "Thank you to all who helped put this event together!"
Paddling on the sudbury river riverfest 2023

Celebrate our Local Rivers at RiverFest
July 6 – July 28

RiverFest Summer 2024 is your opportunity to explore our federally protected Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord Wild & Scenic Rivers. In the MetroWest area, from Lowell to Framingham, three weeks of free events in 9 communities will be hosted on and along the rivers, highlighting what makes them unique and special.
This year’s events include family festivities at the Old Manse in Concord (July 20) and Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge in Sudbury (July 27), guided canoe & kayak trips, nature walks, history talks, bird watching, outdoor yoga, plein air painting, and even a walking book group stroll. Kids may especially enjoy events allowing them to explore the riverbanks or get an up-close look at some wildlife. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, whether young or old, adventuresome or more interest in a leisurely picnic along a river!
Please go to www.sudbury-assabet-concord.org to view a complete listing of RiverFest Summer 2024 events taking place from July 6-28.
Ruta beggars

Audiences are Beggin’ for More when The Ruta Beggars Come to Town


WESTFORD: Appealing to traditional and progressive acoustic music fans alike, The Ruta Beggars combine bluegrass and early swing to create a timeless act filled with intricate vocal harmonies, fiery instrumentals, and plenty of fun. The Beggars will be playing the Parish Center for the Arts, 10 Lincoln Street, on June 28 at 7:30pm.  Tickets range from $12 (Card-to-Culture pricing) to $25, and are available by calling (978) 692-6333, or online at pcawestford.org.  BYOB and snacks for a full evening of entertainment!
The Ruta Beggars have been praised for their creative yet tasteful arrangements and charming performances. Since 2018 they have brought the joy of their live show to audiences across the US and Canada from festival stages to storied folk listening rooms and as support for legacy acts Lyle Lovett and Ricky Skaggs. The Ruta Beggars are 2019 Thomas Point band competition winners, 2023 IBMA official showcasing artists, Freshgrass Foundation commissioned composers, Freshgrass Award finalists, and Skyline Records artists. Best-of-friends since their inception, The Ruta Beggars are Micah Nicol (guitar), Trevin Nelson (banjo), Noah Harrington (bass), Sam Stage (fiddle), and Jean-Baptiste Cardineau (mandolin), who met through studying in Berklee College of Music's American Roots Program.
This event is honoring the Massachusetts Cultural Council "Card-to-Culture" program (https://massculturalcouncil.org/organizations/card-to-culture) with a special discounted ticket price available to card-holding members. C2C cards will be requested when you pick up your tickets at the box office.
Direct ticket link: https://parisharts.square.site/product/6-28-24-the-ruta-beggars/178
Though this is the last concert of the Parish Center’s 2023-24 formal season, don’t miss upcoming summer Concerts-on-the Common!
  • July 13 - John Ferullo's Open Mic Night Sampler, 2-5pm
  • July 20 - MOMENTUM (Rain date, July 21), 2-4pm
  • August 3 - Common Picking Mini Bluegrass Festival, noon-7pm
  • August 10 - Ed McCarron (Rain date, August 11), 2:30-4:30pm
For more information, visit www.pcawestford.org, or call (978) 692-6333.

Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club, Celebrating 59 Years – Summer Picnic

 
Acton, Ayer, Boxborough, Concord, Chelmsford, Littleton, Maynard, Groton, Harvard, Stow, Westford and Surrounding Towns – Celebrating more than 50 years of community building, the Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club will host its’ summer picnic to welcome interested community members in learning more about the club as well as those looking to reconnect with established members. The picnic is being held from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 22, at the NARA PARK PATIO TENT - 25 Ledge Rock Way, Acton, MA, 01720. Enjoy a potluck picnic, music, lawn games and other summer-time delights with the Neighbors - rain or shine under the Nara Park Patio Tent! Club members and guests interested in learning more about the Club are invited to this affair for neighborly conversation and enjoyment of summer picnic activities.
The Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club is excited to invite community members to join us in a variety of activities including Adventure Group, Game Night, Men’s Night Out, Ladies’ Night Out, Book Group, Wine Tasting, Lunch Bunch, dining in and out events, and special events.
Join our Facebook Page and visit the Club’s website at http://www.nashobavalleyneighbors.org for more information on this and other events, as well as information on how to become a member of the Nashoba Valley Neighbors. We look forward to seeing you!
The Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club is a non-profit social organization open to new and established residents from our communities. Celebrating our 50th Anniversary in 2015, we were originally known as the Welcome Wagon Newcomers Club of Acton. More recently, we have been known as the Acton-Boxborough Newcomers & Neighbors Club. Discovering that established residents in our surrounding communities are also looking to explore new interests and to make connections with new friends, we became the Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club in 2014.
Smile summer

SMILE Mass Continues Building Happy Memories One Summer at a Time Non-profit brings accessible vacation opportunities throughout the season.

June 12, 2024 (SUDBURY, Massachusetts) – As a young mother to a child with severe disabilities, SMILE Mass founder Lotte Diomede quickly realized the world wasn’t built for children like her son, Nicholas. One day, Lotte tried to take Nicholas and his sister to their neighborhood park in Sudbury, MA, only to find that it didn’t have a swing that both kids were able to use. Her daughter Annabelle could enjoy the freedom of swinging high into the sky, while Nicholas had to watch from outside the fence of the playground. This life-changing moment sparked a determination in her and she approached the Parks and Recreation Department to see what could be done. Driven by a profound love for her children and a vision of inclusivity, she spearheaded an accessible playground project along with hundreds of other volunteers in the community and the first playground in MetroWest with a universal design, opening the door to simple joys and unforgettable moments for countless families.
Since that time, SMILE Mass (Small Miracles in Life Exist) “swung” into becoming a 501C3 non-profit organization that helps families raising children or adults with disabilities enjoy happy, healthy memories through education, vacation, and recreation experiences.  Though every season is vibrant and energetic for the MetroWest-based non-profit, the organization is at its most active during the late spring and summer seasons, when many of its programs are in full swing.
“Life memories are often made as the weather gets warmer and families vacation together,” explained Lotte.  “For those with a physically disabled family member, such a day can be far from relaxing, often filled with struggles and unexpected challenges due to the lack of accessibility to the beach and a consistent schedule. It was an extension of our playground project when we brought accessibility to the beach.”
Since its inception, SMILE Mass has donated more than 180 floating beach wheelchairs to public ponds and beaches throughout New England to make them more accessible to the disabled. The colorful chairs allow beachgoers with mobility disabilities to travel over the hot surface of the parking lot, roll seamlessly over the thick beach sand, and plunge right into the water like their typical friends and family. The chairs recline into three different positions and have two large wheels at the back and a smaller wheel in front allowing them to be pushed through the sand with relative ease. As a floating device, the chair can be immersed in the water and float gently with the tide. There isn’t a more relaxing way to enjoy a summer day than spending it on the beach.
Due to the overwhelming demand for the program, the organization launched the SMILE Mass Floating Beach Wheelchair Awards Program, which allows towns and cities to apply for their floating beach wheelchair. Officials associated with the city or town, or residents could apply for the award to make their beach location more accessible.
SMILE Mass recently presented new chairs to the towns of Newburyport, Amesbury, Manchester by the Sea, and the Massachusetts Audubon Society in Barnstable with additional chairs to be gifted to Easton, MA, Nahant, and Standish ME in the coming weeks.  Due to the success of the program, the town of Dennis added 20 new chairs to their beaches.
“We are grateful to beach and recreation director Dustin Pineau for being such an active proponent of accessibility. To say we have had success is an understatement – with the support of SMILE Mass, it is clear that the town of Dennis understands the importance of the program as they retire older chairs and consistently strive to make their fleet better.”
“We present the chairs surrounded by some excitement. It’s a big event when accessibility is introduced or expanded in an area, and the decision of the town or municipality to promote accessibility should be celebrated. People with disabilities have the same rights as others, and enjoying a day at the beach is not just a luxury but a right that anyone should be able to experience. We recently had wonderful events in Newburyport and Amesbury where a large contingent of townspeople with and without disabilities came to cheer on the town’s commitment to accessibility.” 
You can find a list of other participating beaches where the SMILE Mass chairs are located at https://smilemass.org/initiative/beach-wheelchairs/.
SMILE Mass also operates a free equipment loaner program for families with disabled family members who may be going on a day, week, or extended vacation. 
“The loaner program was started as an extension of the beach wheelchair program, explained Lotte. “Once word got out about the beach wheelchairs we were donating to public beaches, people started calling because they vacationed in an area that did not yet have one of the donated chairs.”
To help alleviate that issue, SMILE Mass started a loaner program out of Sudbury, Massachusetts. Families can borrow adapted equipment to take anywhere. The inventory includes floating beach wheelchairs, a bath chair with a back, a blue Freedom running stroller, a Hoyer lift, portable ramps and so much more. Any of these items can be borrowed to help families enjoy a day of recreation or a vacation away from home with the right amenities.
SMILE Mass also owns a fully accessible vacation home on the beautiful Truro beach in Massachusetts, providing families with disabled loved ones a much-needed break and an inclusive environment to create lasting memories. The handicap-accessible beachfront condo sits just 75 feet from the ocean and allows accessibility for any family traveling with loved ones with disabilities. The condo sleeps six, with a private beach, two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a roll-in shower, adapted equipment with a universal design flair and all exterior doors have ramps to allow easy access for those
Club SMILE Mass, the organization’s fastest-growing program to date, consists of hybrid classes to stimulate clients with disabilities both mentally and physically. Classes include access to one-on-one gym and swim or small group classes, swimming classes at Atkinson Swimming Pool in Sudbury, and seven-day-per-week access to any LA Fitness in Massachusetts. The program also includes in-person social groups, including music therapy, book club, storytime, bingo, small group workout classes, bike evaluations via Zoom, and more. A physical therapist performs the bike evaluations. All trainers of Club SMILE Mass are specially trained to work with people with disabilities.
“We have received dozens of inquiries from families and organizations struggling with the lack of available services due to the labor shortage in the healthcare sector. These services were previously available to this vulnerable population but dried up during Covid,” continued Diomede. “Through Club SMILE Mass, we provide much-needed daily activities with a focus on movement. There are currently no existing clubs for someone with disabilities, which is a huge problem, and this is why Club SMILE Mass has become so popular.”
SMILE Mass plans to purchase land, which will be the home of “Club SMILE Mass, Community within a Community,” to help bring a sense of equity and inclusion to the severely disabled population in MetroWest.   “Our goal is to create a hub that becomes the leading source of a well-rounded program that takes clients after school age and well into adulthood. Our clients never age out of the program.”
“We have been working to reach an agreement with the owners of a property in MetroWest to complete the acquisition of the property. The property will allow us to bring our Club SMILE Mass program in-house and provide immediate relief to thousands of families in Massachusetts currently without services. This is why fundraising is especially critical,” explained Ms. Diomede.  Every dollar raised is something we didn’t have prior. Each donation will make a profound difference directly into the community
“This is our biggest undertaking yet,” continued Lotte. It is an opportunity for those who believe in equity and equality to resolve a national crisis following the pandemic. We are a grass-roots organization that receives no state funding. All our programs are made possible through grants, fundraising, annual sponsorships, and donations by those who know of all the good SMILE Mass does for the population of the disabled and their families.”
We rely on our existing donors, new donors, and sponsors to take us through each phase of the three-phase Capital Campaign. There is a donation level for everyone, regardless of your financial means.” To donate to the Capital Campaign or any of our programs, visit the SMILE Mass website at smilemass.org or call Lotte at 617-967-7755. 
About SMILE Mass: Small Miracles in Life Exist (SMILE Mass) is a 501 C3 non-profit organization dedicated to helping families raising children or adults with disabilities enjoy happy, healthy memories through vacation and recreation experiences. For more information, visit www.smilemass.org
Smile summer

SMILE Mass Continues Building Happy Memories One Summer at a Time Non-profit brings accessible vacation opportunities throughout the season.

June 12, 2024 (SUDBURY, Massachusetts) – As a young mother to a child with severe disabilities, SMILE Mass founder Lotte Diomede quickly realized the world wasn’t built for children like her son, Nicholas. One day, Lotte tried to take Nicholas and his sister to their neighborhood park in Sudbury, MA, only to find that it didn’t have a swing that both kids were able to use. Her daughter Annabelle could enjoy the freedom of swinging high into the sky, while Nicholas had to watch from outside the fence of the playground. This life-changing moment sparked a determination in her and she approached the Parks and Recreation Department to see what could be done. Driven by a profound love for her children and a vision of inclusivity, she spearheaded an accessible playground project along with hundreds of other volunteers in the community and the first playground in MetroWest with a universal design, opening the door to simple joys and unforgettable moments for countless families.
Since that time, SMILE Mass (Small Miracles in Life Exist) “swung” into becoming a 501C3 non-profit organization that helps families raising children or adults with disabilities enjoy happy, healthy memories through education, vacation, and recreation experiences.  Though every season is vibrant and energetic for the MetroWest-based non-profit, the organization is at its most active during the late spring and summer seasons, when many of its programs are in full swing.
“Life memories are often made as the weather gets warmer and families vacation together,” explained Lotte.  “For those with a physically disabled family member, such a day can be far from relaxing, often filled with struggles and unexpected challenges due to the lack of accessibility to the beach and a consistent schedule. It was an extension of our playground project when we brought accessibility to the beach.”
Since its inception, SMILE Mass has donated more than 180 floating beach wheelchairs to public ponds and beaches throughout New England to make them more accessible to the disabled. The colorful chairs allow beachgoers with mobility disabilities to travel over the hot surface of the parking lot, roll seamlessly over the thick beach sand, and plunge right into the water like their typical friends and family. The chairs recline into three different positions and have two large wheels at the back and a smaller wheel in front allowing them to be pushed through the sand with relative ease. As a floating device, the chair can be immersed in the water and float gently with the tide. There isn’t a more relaxing way to enjoy a summer day than spending it on the beach.
Due to the overwhelming demand for the program, the organization launched the SMILE Mass Floating Beach Wheelchair Awards Program, which allows towns and cities to apply for their floating beach wheelchair. Officials associated with the city or town, or residents could apply for the award to make their beach location more accessible.
SMILE Mass recently presented new chairs to the towns of Newburyport, Amesbury, Manchester by the Sea, and the Massachusetts Audubon Society in Barnstable with additional chairs to be gifted to Easton, MA, Nahant, and Standish ME in the coming weeks.  Due to the success of the program, the town of Dennis added 20 new chairs to their beaches.
“We are grateful to beach and recreation director Dustin Pineau for being such an active proponent of accessibility. To say we have had success is an understatement – with the support of SMILE Mass, it is clear that the town of Dennis understands the importance of the program as they retire older chairs and consistently strive to make their fleet better.”
“We present the chairs surrounded by some excitement. It’s a big event when accessibility is introduced or expanded in an area, and the decision of the town or municipality to promote accessibility should be celebrated. People with disabilities have the same rights as others, and enjoying a day at the beach is not just a luxury but a right that anyone should be able to experience. We recently had wonderful events in Newburyport and Amesbury where a large contingent of townspeople with and without disabilities came to cheer on the town’s commitment to accessibility.” 
You can find a list of other participating beaches where the SMILE Mass chairs are located at https://smilemass.org/initiative/beach-wheelchairs/.
SMILE Mass also operates a free equipment loaner program for families with disabled family members who may be going on a day, week, or extended vacation. 
“The loaner program was started as an extension of the beach wheelchair program, explained Lotte. “Once word got out about the beach wheelchairs we were donating to public beaches, people started calling because they vacationed in an area that did not yet have one of the donated chairs.”
To help alleviate that issue, SMILE Mass started a loaner program out of Sudbury, Massachusetts. Families can borrow adapted equipment to take anywhere. The inventory includes floating beach wheelchairs, a bath chair with a back, a blue Freedom running stroller, a Hoyer lift, portable ramps and so much more. Any of these items can be borrowed to help families enjoy a day of recreation or a vacation away from home with the right amenities.
SMILE Mass also owns a fully accessible vacation home on the beautiful Truro beach in Massachusetts, providing families with disabled loved ones a much-needed break and an inclusive environment to create lasting memories. The handicap-accessible beachfront condo sits just 75 feet from the ocean and allows accessibility for any family traveling with loved ones with disabilities. The condo sleeps six, with a private beach, two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a roll-in shower, adapted equipment with a universal design flair and all exterior doors have ramps to allow easy access for those
Club SMILE Mass, the organization’s fastest-growing program to date, consists of hybrid classes to stimulate clients with disabilities both mentally and physically. Classes include access to one-on-one gym and swim or small group classes, swimming classes at Atkinson Swimming Pool in Sudbury, and seven-day-per-week access to any LA Fitness in Massachusetts. The program also includes in-person social groups, including music therapy, book club, storytime, bingo, small group workout classes, bike evaluations via Zoom, and more. A physical therapist performs the bike evaluations. All trainers of Club SMILE Mass are specially trained to work with people with disabilities.
“We have received dozens of inquiries from families and organizations struggling with the lack of available services due to the labor shortage in the healthcare sector. These services were previously available to this vulnerable population but dried up during Covid,” continued Diomede. “Through Club SMILE Mass, we provide much-needed daily activities with a focus on movement. There are currently no existing clubs for someone with disabilities, which is a huge problem, and this is why Club SMILE Mass has become so popular.”
SMILE Mass plans to purchase land, which will be the home of “Club SMILE Mass, Community within a Community,” to help bring a sense of equity and inclusion to the severely disabled population in MetroWest.   “Our goal is to create a hub that becomes the leading source of a well-rounded program that takes clients after school age and well into adulthood. Our clients never age out of the program.”
“We have been working to reach an agreement with the owners of a property in MetroWest to complete the acquisition of the property. The property will allow us to bring our Club SMILE Mass program in-house and provide immediate relief to thousands of families in Massachusetts currently without services. This is why fundraising is especially critical,” explained Ms. Diomede.  Every dollar raised is something we didn’t have prior. Each donation will make a profound difference directly into the community
“This is our biggest undertaking yet,” continued Lotte. It is an opportunity for those who believe in equity and equality to resolve a national crisis following the pandemic. We are a grass-roots organization that receives no state funding. All our programs are made possible through grants, fundraising, annual sponsorships, and donations by those who know of all the good SMILE Mass does for the population of the disabled and their families.”
We rely on our existing donors, new donors, and sponsors to take us through each phase of the three-phase Capital Campaign. There is a donation level for everyone, regardless of your financial means.” To donate to the Capital Campaign or any of our programs, visit the SMILE Mass website at smilemass.org or call Lotte at 617-967-7755. 
About SMILE Mass: Small Miracles in Life Exist (SMILE Mass) is a 501 C3 non-profit organization dedicated to helping families raising children or adults with disabilities enjoy happy, healthy memories through vacation and recreation experiences. For more information, visit www.smilemass.org

FREE - Hanneke Cassel Concert to Benefit Emmanuel Orphanage, Haiti

Hanneke Cassel joined by Christopher Lewis and Jenna Moynihan to create an evening of amazing live music. Free concert with donations accepted to support Emmanuel Orphanage in Titanyen, Haiti through partnership with Mission of Hope. Come support this great cause and learn more about what is going on at Emmanuel Orphanage and Haiti in general. Special report from Samuel Lucien of MOH.
Immanuel Church has supported this orphanage for 10 years.
Fri, Jun 21, 2024 at 7:00 PM
Immanuel Church, 301 Boston Rd, Chelmsford, MA, 01824

Folk Music Open Mic at CCA

Once a month we are pleased to present FOLK MUSIC Open Mic. Join Doug and Friends to listen to great music! Full bar and snacks available. Donations accepted. Next one is Monday, June 24th, at 7:00 p.m. - sign up at 6:30 p.m. to play or just come to listen!

Chelmsford Children’s Chorus Looking for Singers

 
For their inaugural 2024 - 2025 season, The Chelmsford Children’s Chorus is accepting dedicated singers from Chelmsford and surrounding communities. We are excited the chorus is beginning their journey at The Chelmsford Center for the Arts.
Auditions are not required, but students should participate in their school’s chorus, or at minimum, be enrolled in a general music course.
Starting in September, the chorus will rehearse on Thursdays from 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM at the CCA.
The registration fee for the season (September - April) is $295.
Finance is never a barrier to participation. There are a few scholarships available thru the generosity of the Dacey Zouzas Endowment for the Arts. Please contact the chorus if you require financial support: info@chelmsfordchildrenschorus.org
More information about the chorus can be found on their website: www.chelmsfordchildrenschorus.org

Draper and Friends at the CCA!

 
June 28th at 8:00 p.m. - Pre-show open mic at 7:00 p.m.
Draper & Friends is back with another hilarious lineup of local rising stars and nationally touring comedians who have been featured on Comedy Central, NBC, Funny or Die, SiriusXM, & more! Hosted by Chelmsford native, Janelle Draper, who won the LA Comedy Festival and has opened for Jay Leno, Arsenio Hall, David Spade, Nikki Glaser & more. Don't miss this incredibly special evening filled with nonstop laughs, unforgettable memories and wildly talented comedians, featuring Ron Draper, Kevin Turner, Rollin Atkinson, Gabi Hajos & Jeremy Pearson.
Grab tickets today because they always go fast! Come for the laughs & stay for the amazing vibes! Purchase tickets before June 21 and they are only $15.00 for early bird special - after that they are $20.00 at the door or online after June 21st!
Chelmsford Center for the Arts is located at 1A North Road, Chelmsford

It’s a Barn Party Petting Zoo!

 
Come gallop on over to Bierman Autism Centers – Bedford for our FREE Sensory-Friendly Petting Zoo! From fuzzy bunnies to gentle goats, it's time for an afternoon filled with delightful creatures and fun activities.
When: Sunday, June 30, from 1-3 pm
Where: 23 Crosby Dr., Suite 300, Bedford, Massachusetts 01730
Spaces are limited for this special encounter with the cutest barn animals. Secure your family's spot now by RSVPing below. Don't miss out on this memorable animal adventure!
RSVP Today! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/barn-party-petting-zoo-tickets-919923414697?aff=CommunityCalendars

Summer Solstice Fete with Swing, Blues, & Jazz

 
DATES: SATURDAY, June 22 (Raine date June 23) TIME: 1 to 4 pm
PLACE: BOUTWELL HOUSE, 172 MAIN STREET, GROTON

Summer Solstice Fete with Music by the Hot Club of Pepperell
Groton History Center throws open its doors and welcomes the public to a Summer Solstice Party with music, light refreshments, and convivial conversation at the Boutwell House, 172 Main Street, on Saturday, June 22 from 1 to 4 pm. (Rain date, June 23.) All are welcome to this free event.
Music on this summer afternoon will include Jason J-Bob Eisenberg (guitar/vocals) & Dennis Lefty Poitras (bass/percussion) in cahoots with swing/jazz violinist Nick Norman and reed man, Hans Betancourth (saxes/clarinet). Together the quartet promises a cool repertoire of popular and obscure Jazz, Swing, and Blues from the Great American Songbook (1920s -1950) with the occasional Tango.
Inside the exquisitely restored 1851 Boutwell House visitors will discover not only the one-time home of Governor George S. Boutwell (1818-1905) and family but a museum of rare New England antiquities. Among them: paintings by the West Groton native and famed Impressionist Edmund Tarbell (1862-1938); a stunning group of shorebirds, hand-carved by the late Groton School teacher and local conservationist, Harvey Sarggison (1902-1987); a collection of pewter from the original Groton Inn, and much more. Behind the house, Georgie’s Garden (originally conceived by the Governor’s daughter, Georgianna Boutwell (1843-1933) is currently enjoying a renaissance under the care of horticulturist Karen Brackett of Groton. Take time to stroll the paths through graceful lupine and other plantings, sit a while on one of several benches, and enjoy the view of Gibbet Hill—one of Groton’s and the state’s most distinctive geologic features.
The Summer Solstice party is free and open to the public, thanks to the Groton Commissioners of Trust Funds, grants, and corporate and private donations. For more information visit grotonhistory.org; grotonhistory.org/Facebook, or call 978-448-0092. Universal access is available throughout the first floor and gardens.

American Radio Relay League 2024 Field Day

 
On June 22 and 23, the Westford Police Amateur Radio Team, PART, (http://www.wb1gof.org/) will be participating in the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) 2024 Field Day (https://www.arrl.org/field-day). This is the single most popular on-the-air event for the ARRL. Thousands of radio amateurs gather with their clubs, groups or simply with friends to operate from field locations, to practice our emergency preparedness skills and showcase amateur radio to the public.

During this event, members of PART will be communicating with other amateur radio operators from across North America and around the world. We will be showcasing 7 different live amateur radio stations each using a different amateur radio communication technique. One of the stations will permit you to actually operate on the air, under the supervision of a licensed amateur radio operator!

Come join us at the Concord Rod and Gun Club (https://concordrodandgun.com/) at 74 Strawberry Hill Road in Concord, MA from 2:00 PM on Saturday June 22 through 12:00 noon Sunday June 23. It’s free and open to the public.

NRWA Eco-Adventure Summer Survival Fun Week for 11 to 15 Year Olds

 
The Nashua River Watershed Association (NRWA) invites 11 to 15 year olds from all communities to participate in our Summer Survival Fun Week, a four-day program based at the NRWA River Resource Center, 592 Main Street (Rt. 119) in Groton, MA. This program will run from Monday June 24th through Thursday June 27th, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. each day
We’ll venture into the woods, fields, and hills of Groton hiking, tracking, and building shelters. We’ll spend a full day canoeing on the Squannacook River.  During these adventures, participants will learn outdoor survival skills, study local plant and animal life, and engage in team building games.
All activities are guided by NRWA’s professional educators and naturalists, including Stacey Chilcoat, our River Classroom Director. If you love outdoor exploration, new challenges, and making friends, we hope you’ll join us.
The fee for this 4-day program is $300 per person for NRWA members and $330 per person for non-members; $150 per person deposit required.  Pre-registration is required; limited spaces available. Register online today at www.nashuariverwatershed.org, under Upcoming Programs. For more information, please contact Stacey Chilcoat, NRWA River Classroom Director, at (978) 448-0299, or email registration@NashuaRiverWatershed.org.
The Nashua River Watershed Association is a non-profit environmental organization providing water and land protection, climate impact resiliency, and education programs to 32 communities in the Nashua River Watershed.  Learn more at: www.nashuariverwatershed.org.

Family Book Club

The Lutheran Church of the Savior is beginning a book club for families. We will begin with The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis. Each family will receive a free copy of the book at our organizational meeting Saturday June 22nd at 1pm. We will then meet weekly each Saturday at 1pm, June 29th through July 13th. Bring the family for a fun time exploring Lewis’ world of Narnia!
Contact Al Drehman if you have questions: 978-256-4539
Lutheran Church of the Savior
426 Davis Road, Bedford, MA
Mcc college for kids2 su24

Kids Love Variety of Programming Offered at MCC’s College for Kids Summer Camps


This summer, Middlesex Community College’s College for Kids program is debuting a variety of new classes. In MCC’s summer programs, kids ages 8 to 17 engage in interactive activities to explore future careers, learn new skills, meet new friends, and boost self-confidence.
“I loved the variety of things we did in aviation camp,” said Charlie Dugan, a 10-year-old College for Kids student from North Andover. “We did a lot of hands-on experiments. We used toy planes, paper planes and simulators. The instructor John was very nice and very understanding. I’m looking forward to doing more outdoor experiments this year and to trying another MCC camp.”
College for Kids classes run July 8 to August 8, featuring subjects including Ace Aviation, All About Science, Coding, Dungeons and Dragons, Cakes and Cupcakes, Creative Drawing and Exploration Art Studio.
New programs debuting this summer include subjects in science, game design, improv, dance, and Taylor Swift. In Curious 4 Science Concepts, students have the chance to perform experiments, including a lava lamp and microscopic observation of plant and animal cells. A game design course allows students to build, design and look into translating games into digital formats. Skills include planning out a timeline, playtesting, design and implementation.
The new On the Spot Improv teaches young students the basics of improv through playing games and creating scenes. Skills include active listening, quick thinking and imagination. Students in the dance bootcamp learn the fundamentals of improv, as well as a pom dance, hip hop, and one they create together throughout the week, ending with a group performance.
MCC’s new (NOT SO) Cruel Summer focuses on the songs and sensation of Taylor Swift. Fans will take a creative writing-based deep dive of the artist’s greatest hits, analyzing the poetry behind her work. There will be the opportunity to listen to songs, watch music videos, and make friendship bracelets.
“We are thrilled to offer a line-up of popular returning and new and exciting programs this summer,” said Ellen Wright, MCC’s Assistant Director of Lifelong Learning and Workforce Development. “While our students enjoy collaborating with their friends on topics they wouldn’t normally learn in school, they also gain skills that develop their academic interests that may plant the seeds for potential future careers.”
Programs are taught by public school teachers and expert professionals on MCC’s Bedford and Lowell campuses. Featuring five weeks of full- and half-day programs, Monday through Thursday, full-day programs run 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and half-day programs run 9 a.m. to noon or 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Students who take two half-day programs to make a full day can stay on campus for lunch in between the two sessions. For more information, visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/collegeforkids/ or email CollegeForKids@middlesex.edu and call 781-280-3663

Save A Life Free Narcan Training

 
Presented by the Chelmsford Health Department
What You’ll Learn:
  • What Opiods are
  • How to administer Narcan
  • Xylazine and Fentanyl facts
Who Should Attend:
  • Teens
  • Parents
  • Community Members
When and Where:
June 25th from 6-6:30pm at Chelmsford Town Hall Fire Training Room
How to register:
Call Taryn or Darcy at the Chelmsford Health Department 978-250-5241 or email Taryn: tangel@chelmsfordma.gov

Juneteenth Celebration

Chelmsford Town Common
June 22
11:00 am-3pm
Rain Location: Chelmsford Senior Center, 75 Groton Road, Chelmsford
Music and Dance Performances
Minority-owned Vendors with Art, Quilts and Clothing
Chelmsford Pop-Up Mobile Library with Books by Black Authors
Diverse and Delicious Food
Fun for the whole family and our community!!
Chichi enu

Acton to Host Free Concert Featuring Artist-In-Residence Chichi Enu

ACTON Town Manager John Mangiaratti is delighted to announce a special event, "Untold Stories," featuring artist-in-residence Chichi Enu on Friday, June 21, from 7-8:30 p.m. at the NARA Amphitheater.
This free concert is open to the public and promises an inspiring evening of music and storytelling.
Chichi Enu, an inspirational speaker, classical crossover singer, songwriter, and non-practicing attorney, will perform works by BIPOC and LGBTQ+ classical composers and mainstream artists, intertwined with inspiring stories of their journeys. Chichi’s own path to embracing her true self and focusing on her artistic talents serves as a testament to her empowering message.
"We are thrilled to host Chichi Enu and provide this enriching experience for our community," said Maura Haberman, Event & Program Coordinator. "Her performance will not only entertain but also inspire and encourage self-reflection and growth."
Acton's Economic & Community Development Director Julie Pierce said, "“This event is the latest in the public art initiatives of Acton’s Economic Development Office. Public art increases enjoyment of the area and serves as an invitation to visit all of the shops, recreational opportunities, cultural outlets and more in Acton. We are so excited to present this first of it’s kind event featuring a multilingual, interactive Opera Concert."
Event Details:
  • Date: Friday, June 21
  • Time: 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
  • Location: NARA Amphitheater, 71 Quarry Road, Acton
  • Admission: Free, general admission, lawn seating. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or chairs.
Additional Information:
  • Food and Beverages: A food vendor will be onsite offering grilled items, snacks, beer, wine, and soft drinks.
  • Parking: Free onsite parking is available, including handicap parking. Please follow event parking signs.
  • Rain Plan: In case of rain, the event will be moved to Acton Town Hall, 472 Main St. Note that seating is limited at this venue and will be on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Eco-Friendly Initiative: The event supports Acton's "Leave No Trash Behind" campaign. Attendees are encouraged to keep the park clean and eco-friendly.
Chichi Enu's journey from practicing law to becoming a celebrated performer is marked by her dedication to helping others trust their inner guidance and embrace their true selves. Her career breakthrough as Acton’s 2024 artist-in-residence includes several engagements, such as this Keynote Concert on June 21.
This event is made possible through the generous support of the New England Foundation for the Arts (NEFA) Public Art Learning Fund, with funding from the Barr Foundation, and grants from the Acton-Boxborough, Concord, Stow, Westford, Littleton, and Hudson Cultural Councils, supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.
For more information about this event and other upcoming events, please visit http://www.actonma.gov/business.

There’s Always Something Happening at the PCA

 
Thursday Night Sing & Jam
Thursdays, 7-10pm. Bring your instrument and/or voice and join the Sing & Jam fun! $5 suggested cover for drop-in programs. This is an on-going weekly event. Coming up…6/20, 6/27, 7/4, 7/11, 7/25, 8/1, 8/8, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29. The PCA is located at 10 Lincoln Street, right on Westford Common. For information, visit pcawestford.org,


Open Mic Night:
Held on 2nd & 4th Sundays in a month at 6:30 pm during the season. Open Mic Night is for all ages and levels of experience. Sing a song, play a tune, or speak your truth. The mic is on and everyone is welcome. Special guests will also stop by for some added fun. $5 suggested cover for all drop-in programs. Future Date: 6/23 (Final event until Fall). The PCA is located at 10 Lincoln Street, right on Westford Common. For information, visit pcawestford.org,


3rd Friday Bluegrass Jam: June 21st
A community event open to the public, 7-10pm. Bring your banjo, fiddle, voice, or just come to watch  every 3rd Friday in a month! All are welcome and all have a great time. Future Dates: 7/19, 8/16, 9/20, 10/18, 11/15, 12/20. The PCA is located at 10 Lincoln Street, right on Westford Common. For information, visit pcawestford.org,
Bluegrass

The Ruta Beggars at PCA

WESTFORD: Appealing to traditional and progressive acoustic music fans alike, The Ruta Beggars combine bluegrass and early swing to create a timeless act filled with intricate vocal harmonies, fiery instrumentals, and plenty of fun. The Beggars will be playing the Parish Center for the Arts, 10 Lincoln Street, on June 28 at 7:30pm.  Tickets range from $12 (Card-to-Culture pricing) to $25, and are available by calling (978) 692-6333, or online at pcawestford.org.  BYOB and snacks for a full evening of entertainment!
The Ruta Beggars have been praised for their creative yet tasteful arrangements and charming performances. Since 2018 they have brought the joy of their live show to audiences across the US and Canada from festival stages to storied folk listening rooms and as support for legacy acts Lyle Lovett and Ricky Skaggs. The Beggars are 2019 Thomas Point band competition winners, 2023 IBMA official showcasing artists, Freshgrass Foundation commissioned composers, Freshgrass Award finalists, and Skyline Records artists. Best-of-friends since their inception, The Ruta Beggars are Micah Nicol (guitar), Trevin Nelson (banjo), Noah Harrington (bass), Sam Stage (fiddle), and Jean-Baptiste Cardineau (mandolin), who met through studying in Berklee College of Music's American Roots Program.
This event is honoring the Massachusetts Cultural Council "Card-to-Culture" program (https://massculturalcouncil.org/organizations/card-to-culture) with a special discounted ticket price available to card-holding members. C2C cards will be requested when you pick up your tickets at the box office.
Direct ticket link: https://parisharts.square.site/product/6-28-24-the-ruta-beggars/178
Facebook: facebook.com/ParishCenterfortheArts
Twitter: twitter.com/PCAWestford
Instagram: instagram.com/pcawestford

DUKE ELLINGTON TRIBUTE with AIDAN SCRIMGEOUR

WESTFORD: The Parish Center for the Arts will be offering an 11th hour addition to its 2023-24 season when favorite Aidan Scrimgeour returns with a Duke Ellington event on June 8 at 7:30pm! Kids of all ages are welcome. Tickets range from $10 to $25.  Seating will be cafe-style (tables). BYO food and drink. Doors open at 7pm. For more information, call (978) 692-6333 or visit pcawestford.org.
Everyone loves Aidan Scrimgeour’s annual “Charlie Brown Christmas Jazz Concert,” but Aidan is back with a Duke Ellington tribute concert to ring in the summer! The Mostly Aidans Trio, featuring Aidan Scrimgeour on piano and Aidan Cafferty on bass. Scrimgeour is a musician, composer and educator from Salem, MA based in Brooklyn, NY. After studying piano performance in the Contemporary Improvisation Program at New England Conservatory with Ran Blake and Hankus Netsky, he graduated with a B.A. in Performance & Representation from Tufts University. In 2020, Aidan co-founded Brooklyn Porch Music, an educational and performance collective that emerged from daily ritualistic concerts throughout the early months of the pandemic. This program provides free music lessons,ensembles and writing workshops for teens in South Brooklyn communities.
Aidan’s musical projects and collaborations incorporate elements of jazz, country, and Irish traditional music, among others. He has performed throughout the country with a variety of groups, playing piano, organ and accordion. In the words of Roy Nathanson of the Jazz Passengers, “the gentle and generous spirit of Aidan’s piano playing leaves you underestimating his remarkable attention to detail and the complexity of his melodic and harmonic ideas. I have been lucky to have played with some amazing players and composers in my 70 years and I can say that Aidan Scrimgeour is a very, very special musician.”
Direct Ticket Link: https://parisharts.square.site/pca-jazz-cafe
Facebook: facebook.com/ParishCenterfortheArts
Twitter:twitter.com/PCAWestford
Instagram:instagram.com/pcawestford

DINING FOR A CAUSE at The Pleasant Cafe, Ayer

 
Take the night off from cooking and come to The Pleasant Cafe at 7 Depot Square in Ayer on  Wednesday, June 12 from 5-8pm to support The Friends of the Ayer Library.
The Pleasant Cafe has generously partnered with the Friends to hold a Dining for a Cause event where they will donate a percentage of all dine in and pick up sales that evening. Help us make this a success by stopping by or picking up your delicious dinner while supporting a great cause. The Friends support the Ayer Library through fundraising which provides museum passes, summer reading programs, adult and children educational events and more!

THRIFTY THURSDAYS

 
Join us for Thrifty Thursdays every Thursday from 3-6pm at the West Acton Baptist Church. This Pop-Up Thrift Shop is sure to have a little something for everyone. We are located at 592 Massachusetts Ave in West Acton and the Pop-Up Thrift Shop is in our coatroom, entrance next to the elevator & Mini Food Pantry.

FIRST PARISH CHURCH is DONATING 3 BIRTHDAY PARTIES for CHILDREN in NEED

 
Many families struggle to offer their children the joyful birthday celebrations they deserve. First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC) and FPC volunteer staff are offering 3 free parties, to occur between July 2024 and June 2025, to families that might not otherwise be able to have a party for a child. The youth at FPC have helped build a party “escape room” chest that’s available for birthday rentals. The parties are best suited for children and youth between 8 and 17. This includes the use of FPC’s Vestry, including tables and chairs for up to 20 people (though the escape adventure is recommended for 5 to 10 participants), and access to a small kitchen. The parties also include an FPC volunteer who will open and close the building and act as “games master” for the escape adventure. Pirate-themed Escape Room in a Chest: ● 12 puzzles to solve (suited to ages 8 to adult) ● A 60- to 90-minute adventure (approximately) ● Teams of 5 to 10 people Typical Party ● 2 hours total ● Up to 90 min in Escape Game ● Remainder of time in Vestry Cafe for any food, cake and beverages you bring. The value of the party is $300 ($250 rent and $50 sexton fee). Low-income families and foster families are encouraged to apply using the URL below. At least one adult must be present throughout the party. Tinyurl.com/FPCpiratebday Applications will be reviewed by FPC’s minister. Requests will be accepted until Saturday, June 15. Recipients of the parties will be contacted by Sunday, June 30, 2024. FPC is located at 353 Great Rd., Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible.

WOMEN WORKING WONDERS FUND SEEKS REQUEST for PROPOSALS for 2024 GRANT CYCLE

 
Lowell, Mass. – The Women Working Wonders Fund (WWWF), a permanently endowed fund of the Greater Lowell Community Foundation, requests proposals for this year’s grant cycle that opens on May 20. The Women Working Wonders Fund will award five (5) grants of up to $10,000 each to programs/projects that impact the lives of women and girls while advancing an organization’s mission.
WWWF provides annual grants in three key areas: assisting women in transition, providing leadership development for women and girls, and contributing to the beautification of the environment benefitting women and girls. Started in 2004 by a group of 72 women who each gave $500, the WWW Fund has now grown to more than $1.5 million. Since its inception, WWWF has distributed grants totaling over $444,000, creating positive change in countless lives in Greater Lowell.
To apply for the Women Working Wonders Fund grant, visit www.glcfoundation.org. The deadline to apply is Thursday, June 20, 2024, at noon. For more information on the Women Working Wonders Fund, visit womenworkingwondersfund.com or contact womenworkingwondersfund@gmail.com.

FRIENDS of the J.V. FLETCHER LIBRARY FOUNDATION LAUNCHES the 1,000 HOMES CAMPAIGN

 
Contact: Mary Anne Seraphin, foundation@westfordlibraryfriends.org, 978-692-6345

The J.V. Fletcher Library is undergoing an historic expansion and renovation and is appealing to the public for support. The Friends of the J.V. Fletcher Library Foundation – as part of its commitment to raise $1.5 million of the overall cost of the building project – has launched the 1,000 Homes For The Library Campaign. With this initiative, the Foundation is asking 1,000 Westford households to pledge $1,000 each (either as a one-time payment or spread over three years with three yearly payments of $333.) If 1,000 homes participate, the Foundation can raise $1,000,000 towards its goal. In addition, the Foundation has a number of naming opportunities available in the expanded, renovated building. The first 100 donors who give as part of the 1,000 Homes Campaign will receive – if they wish – a lawn sign to show their support. Every donation given, no matter the amount, will be recognized on what the Foundation is calling the Wall For All in the renovated library. The Friends of the J.V. Fletcher Library is an independent, registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization #22-2675998. Donations are tax deductible to the extent allowable by law. Want more information? Go to www.westfordlibraryfoundation.org.

COUNTRY FAIR on CHELMSFORD COMMON

Time is winding down. Don’t miss your opportunity to join us at the July 3 & 4th Country Fair on Chelmsford Common. Vendor spaces are filling up fast. If you’re interested in securing a space email us at Chelmsfordlionsclub@yahoo.com and we will send you the information.
Each year the Chelmsford Lions Club sponsors this event. All funds raised from space fees is given right back into the Chelmsford community through our service projects.
Please join us at the Fair.

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT SHOW ANNOUNCED with Tom Richardson & Aaron Bilodeau

 
WESTFORD: The Parish Center for the Arts (PCA) is focusing on supporting local artists this June. On June 14 at 7:30pm, enjoy an eclectic mix of styles when singer/songwriter Tom Richardson and electronic indie funk artist Aaron Bilodeau take the PCA stage!  Tickets range from $10-$18 and are available by calling (978) 392-6333 or online at pcawestford.org. The PCA is a BYOB & food facility, so pack a picnic and plan out a full evening of entertainment at 10 Lincoln Street in Westford.
Folk-Americana singer-songwriter Tom Richardson found his way back to music after a long, more traditional career. With a style rooted in the 1970’s music of artists such as James Taylor, John Prine, and Glen Campbell, Tom features acoustic guitar over a modern, folk-country, Americana sound. His warm and expressive voice serenades with stories of life, love and longing. Tom’s second act as a musician and actor brings a lifetime of perspective and some wisdom to poignant and vibrant stories of a shared experience.
Aaron Bilodeau is known for his mastery of multiple instruments. He captivates audiences by seamlessly combining singing, bass guitar wizardry and synth manipulation — all performed with a flair that truly sets him apart through his unique blend of electronic indie funk. Aaron has demonstrated his creativity and talent through original works, culminating in the release of four solo albums. His latest, "Drone at Home," showcases his evolving musical vision and experimental spirit. With each performance, Aaron invites listeners into his musical universe, where boundaries are blurred and sonic landscapes are explored with boundless creativity.
When it comes to supporting local arts and artists, it's mutually beneficial. An exchange between artist and audience has rippling positive impacts on the individuals and the communities surrounding them. So visit a Gallery and/or take in a show. Make a donation. It fosters community.  It's good for the economy.  It's good for YOU!
Direct ticket link: https://parisharts.square.site/product/6-14-24-tom-richardson-aaron-bilodeau/179
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ParishCenterfortheArts
Twitter: www.twitter.com/PCAWestford
Instagram: www.instagram.com/pcawestford

ROUDENBUSH COMMUNITY MARKET COMING

 
The Roudenbush Community Market will commence on July 2nd, located at Fisher Way in Westford, MA. This vibrant Market will be open every Tuesday until September 10th, operating from 3 PM to 7 PM. Visitors can enjoy a variety of local produce, artisanal goods, and community activities.
**New Location** The Market has recently moved to a new, more spacious location on Fisher Way, next to Abbot Elementary School, providing ample parking and additional space for vendors and food trucks as well as being an area that is designed to be family-friendly, with facilities like nearby restrooms, wastebaskets, and space for kids to play and folks to socialize. We will still have the option to hold the Market in the gym of Roudenbush in case of bad weather!
This Roudenbush Community Market not only supports local vendors by providing them a platform to showcase their products but also fosters a sense of community among Westford residents. The relocation aims to create a more dynamic space for interaction and commerce, contributing to the market's growth and the vitality of the local community.

The Roudenbush Community Center is excited to introduce you to Daisy, our Market mascot! Daisy the cow will be hidden at a different vendor each week. Check out our social media for hints on where to find her. When you do, come to the Roudenbush table to win a prize! We have new and returning vendors!

COMMUNITY of SUPPORT HELPED COMMENCEMENT STUDENT SPEAKER FIND  HER PATH

 
For Jennifer Laing, from Venezuela and now living in Maynard, the people of Middlesex Community College made a positive impact on her college experience. A Liberal Arts and Sciences major, Laing is one of two graduation speakers representing the class of 2024 at MCC’s Commencement held on Thursday, May 23 at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium. “I am incredibly delighted to represent the student body at graduation,” Laing said. “The MCC community of faculty, students and staff members have made my experience here enriching, exciting and exalting. I hope I can deliver a message that can reciprocate their care and support.” Laing is honored to have been asked to speak at graduation. From classmates to professors, she sees her speech as an opportunity to give back to the people who inspired her. Calling the MCC community “generous, resourceful and very special,” she appreciated taking advantage of all of the opportunities available to her at Middlesex in and outside of the classroom. “I could not have anticipated the support I have received from faculty, peers and staff over the past two years,” Laing said. “I chose MCC because the school offers a great variety of online classes, but I stayed at MCC because every single human I have interacted with has impacted my journey in inspiring and encouraging ways.” The support Laing found at Middlesex started with her first ever professor, Dr. Denise Marchionda. By experiencing a welcoming environment, Laing felt more comfortable beginning her academic journey. With Dr. Marchionda’s guidance, Laing also pushed herself harder to “reach my fullest potential.” “She believed I could do great things here at MCC, and made me believe it too,” Laing said. “She continues to be a mentor as well as a source of motivation to keep going after my academic goals.” When Laing first started at Middlesex, her goal was to earn a college education. Unsure of what she wanted to study or pursue for a career, Laing’s husband recommended she start with general education courses. Exploring a variety of subjects helped her find her passion. She also gained a “well-rounded foundation” to help her develop goals and a plan for the future. An active community member at Middlesex, Laing enjoyed attending campus events and working as a writing tutor for MCC’s Academic Centers for Enrichment (ACE). Graduating with highest honors, she is a member of MCC’s Commonwealth Honors Program and Phi Theta Kappa, the honors society for two-year schools. As she looks forward to transferring to a four-year institution, Laing hopes to continue to use the knowledge, skills and confidence she found at Middlesex. At her new school, she plans to major in English and minor in Psychology. Laing emphasizes the value of having a community of supportive employees and classmates dedicated to her growth and development. As she graduates and continues on with her education and into the workforce, she hopes to take what she has learned from the college and apply it to her new endeavors. “Being a student at MCC has been a fantastic experience,” she said. “I have grown as a scholar, friend, mother and thinker because of my experiences and education here.”
Mcc megan guros s24

MCC COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER THRIVED in MCC’s LEARN & EARN PROGRAM


From childhood, Megan Guros, of Andover, has lived with a disability and a diagnosis of a rare disease that brought a life expectancy of 15 years. Medical advancements helped her survive, improved her quality of life, and inspired a passion for the field of biotechnology, which she pursued at Middlesex Community College. Guros is one of two graduation speakers representing the class of 2024 at MCC’s Commencement held on Thursday, May 23 at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium. “It is an immense honor and profound responsibility to be selected as a commencement speaker,” Guros said. “Given the struggles I have experienced with my health, I doubted my ability to ever graduate. This opportunity allows me to reflect on our shared experiences and the resilience we've demonstrated throughout our educational journey. It's a platform to express gratitude, share insights, and inspire my classmates as we all prepare to embark on our next chapters.” In MCC’s Learn and Earn Experience, Guros appreciated the “unique” opportunity to study while gaining relevant experience and supporting her family. Bringing firsthand knowledge to the company as a rare disease patient, Guros interned at Ultragenyx. She feels that the labs and classes as part of MCC’s Biotech program prepared her to be a productive member of her team working hands-on within the supply chain. “The internship has greatly contributed to my education by offering me real-world industry experience,” she said. “This helps me to know the right questions to ask for further clarification and assists me in seeing how everything we are learning comes together in industry.” One of the reasons Guros first chose to come to MCC was the diverse student body. She believes the “rich and vibrant learning environment” at the college provides an opportunity to work with and learn from people with different backgrounds, cultures and life experiences. Faculty and staff have also made a big impact on Guros’s time at Middlesex. By creating a safe space in which to learn, Dr. Mariluci Bladon, MCC’s Professor & Chair of Biotechnology, helped Guros feel comfortable asking for assistance and pushing herself to succeed. Guros also has guidance in the TRIO Program for Student Achievement, including from director Jennifer Stach. This network of support allowed her to make the return to college, knowing she has built-in help as she navigates her college experience and any challenges that may arise. “My experience at MCC has been transformative,” Guros said. “The faculty's engagement, the wealth of knowledge I have gained, and the unwavering support I have received have shaped my educational journey into one that is fulfilling and rewarding. Guros was President of MCC's Biotech Club and of the student chapters of the New England Parenteral Drug Association and the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering, as well as a member of Phi Theta Kappa, MCC’s Commonwealth Honors Program, and the National Society of Leadership and Success. Graduating with highest honors, she is now studying at Northeastern University on a scholarship to earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees. She credits MCC for helping to build a foundation for her future. “I have found my path and I am excited again for the future,” she said. “MCC has helped me move forward in my life from a place of merely surviving to a course on which I am thriving. I am determined to do the biotech program proud and have a real impact in the industry.”

CHELMSFORD COMMUNITY EDUCATION PRIVATE MUSIC LESSONS

Registration for Private Music Lessons through Chelmsford Community Education is now open.  The 5-week summer session runs from July 8th to August 9th and is open to students of all ages living in Chelmsford or outside of town for the same fee.
For more information or to register, go to ChelmsfordCommunityEd.com or call us at 978-251-5151

STATEWIDE AGAINST the TIDE ATHLETICS EVENT to SUPPORT BREAST CANCER PREVENTION

 
Join Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition (MBCC) in 2024 and swim, run or walk to support breast cancer prevention!
MBCC will host its special 25th Anniversary Cape Cod Against the Tide event at DCR’s Nickerson State Park on Saturday, June 8th in Brewster, MA. The weekend after, join MBCC at DCR’s Hopkinton State Park on Saturday, June 15th for Against the Tide’s 32nd year!
MBCC will also host a virtual event from June 8th to June 15th for those who would like to participate in Against the Tide and support the mission of cancer prevention from any location!
Events include USMS-Sanctioned 1-mile swim, 1-mile recreational and competitive swims, ½-mile recreational swim, USATF-Certified 5K and 10K runs, and a 3-mile fitness walk.
In-person participants will receive an event t-shirt, bib, and goodie bag. Prizes will be awarded for the top swim and run finishers of the in-person events. Prizes will also be awarded to the highest fundraising individuals at the in-person events.
Events can be enjoyed by adults and children of all ages and abilities. The in-person registration fee is $40 per person per athletic component and the virtual registration fee is $20 per person with the option to participate in one or more events virtually. Visit the MBCC event web page, mbcc.org/swim, to donate to the event and learn how to create or join a team and fundraise for breast cancer prevention.
The funds raised through Against the Tide help to support and expand our community education program Let’s Talk Prevention: Reducing Toxic Exposures, MBCC Webinar Series, and the newly-expanded student environmental health program, Let’s Talk Prevention: Actions You Can Take.
MBCC was founded in 1991 as a non-profit organization dedicated to preventing environmental causes of breast cancer through community education, research advocacy, and changes to public policy.
To learn more about all of the registration options, to join or create a team, and to donate, please visit the MBCC website at mbcc.org/swim or call 508-246-3047.

WESTFORD FREE STYLE DANCE JAM

 
Parish Center for the Arts, 10 Lincoln Street, Westford.
Wednesday, June 26 7-9:30pm
Dance your inner spirit in a non-judgmental, non-structured, supportive, respectful environment.
Music provided by DJ Alkemi, a veteran of many freestyle dances around the country.
Smoke and substance-free, 18+. Admission is $10. Some volunteer opportunities are available for event support tasks.
For more information, call 617-799-8680 or email: wefreedancejam@gmail.com

NASHOBA PLAYERS FALL PRODUCTION AUDITIONS

 
Auditions are upcoming for the Nashoba Players' Fall production of "[title of show]," with music and lyrics by Jeff Bowen and a book by Hunter Bell. The production will be directed by Ken Golner (stage) and Kathryn Denney (music). Auditions are by appointment only, June 24 and 27. Full audition details are available at nashobaplayers.org/auditions.

WESTFORD’S PARISH CENTER for the ARTS PRESENTS:
The Artist Circle of Groton “The Nature of All Things”

 
The exhibition will run through June 30 with a Wine and Cheese Reception on Friday, June 7 from 6-9pm. The Gallery is open to visitors each Sunday from noon-2pm.  For more information, visit www.pcawestford.org.
The Artist Circle of Groton members Dana Haigh, Claudia Owens, Michelle Ward, and Beth A. Smith proudly present "The Nature of All Things” as a joint exhibition during the month of June. Through the vibrant mediums of watercolor, alcohol inks, and acrylics, these four talented artists have crafted an extraordinary collection of works that pays homage to the boundless beauty of nature's tapestry.
Michelle Ward is a lifelong artist, commercial interior designer and member of the Artist Circle, Michelle Ward received her art degree from the University of Lowell(now UMass Lowell). Working in acrylic, using various tools and methods her paintings explore our natural world in layered color, texture and expressive composition.
Claudia Owens,a watercolor artist, finds inspiration in the enchanting wonders of nature,travels, and the timeless charm of children’s books. With a whimsical touch,she harnesses watercolor’s transparent effects to breathe life into vibrant scenes, each infused with a touch of fantasy. Claudia is a member of the Artist Circle,an elementary art teacher and teaches art to both adults and children at Groton’s Prescott Community Center.
Dana Haigh lives and works out of Groton. She has been obsessed with alcohol inks for the last four years. Instilling some control into this very fluid medium has been a lovely challenge that Dana has enjoyed. Dana is a member NVAG, HAS and teaches classes through the Prescott Community Center.
Beth Smith is a Groton-based self-taught watercolor artist. Her work is inspired by the shapes, light and shadows in natural landscapes.  She is drawn to the beauty of nature, its calmness and solitude and wants to impart those feelings to her audience. Beth has co-chaired the Westford Regional Art Event. and co-founded the PCA’s Gallery. She teaches watercolor classes at Prescott Community Center in Groton.
Don’t miss this unique display of art at the PCA during the month of June!
The PCA Gallery will also be open on June 15 during the Strawberry and Art Festival. Come and meet the artists on June 7 at the reception or at the Strawberry festival!

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT SHOW ANNOUNCED with Tom Richardson & Aaron Bilodeau

 
WESTFORD: The Parish Center for the Arts (PCA) is focusing on supporting local artists this June. On June 14 at 7:30pm, enjoy an eclectic mix of styles when singer/songwriter Tom Richardson and electronic indie funk artist Aaron Bilodeau take the PCA stage!  Tickets range from $10-$18 and are available by calling (978) 392-6333 or online at pcawestford.org. The PCA is a BYOB & food facility, so pack a picnic and plan out a full evening of entertainment at 10 Lincoln Street in Westford.
Folk-Americana singer-songwriter Tom Richardson found his way back to music after a long, more traditional career. With a style rooted in the 1970’s music of artists such as James Taylor, John Prine, and Glen Campbell, Tom features acoustic guitar over a modern, folk-country, Americana sound. His warm and expressive voice serenades with stories of life, love and longing. Tom’s second act as a musician and actor brings a lifetime of perspective and some wisdom to poignant and vibrant stories of a shared experience.
Aaron Bilodeau is known for his mastery of multiple instruments. He captivates audiences by seamlessly combining singing, bass guitar wizardry and synth manipulation — all performed with a flair that truly sets him apart through his unique blend of electronic indie funk. Aaron has demonstrated his creativity and talent through original works, culminating in the release of four solo albums. His latest, "Drone at Home," showcases his evolving musical vision and experimental spirit. With each performance, Aaron invites listeners into his musical universe, where boundaries are blurred and sonic landscapes are explored with boundless creativity.
When it comes to supporting local arts and artists, it's mutually beneficial. An exchange between artist and audience has rippling positive impacts on the individuals and the communities surrounding them. So visit a Gallery and/or take in a show. Make a donation. It fosters community.  It's good for the economy.  It's good for YOU!
Direct ticket link: https://parisharts.square.site/product/6-14-24-tom-richardson-aaron-bilodeau/179
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ParishCenterfortheArts
Twitter: www.twitter.com/PCAWestford
Instagram: www.instagram.com/pcawestford

CALL FOR ARTISTS

 
The PCA has re-opened its Call for Artists to fill in a couple new exhibition slots. If accepted, artist(s) will display their work as featured "Artist/s-of-the-Month" on the walls of our 10 Lincoln Street location. The PCA provides the exhibition space and guidance, including promotion and marketing. The artist is responsible for sharing promotional efforts, as well as hanging, hosting a reception and/or demonstrations/workshops (requested, but not required), and possible sittings during Gallery open hours. Artists retain 80% of all sales. Interested? Email 6-8 images (.jpg files less than 1mb), a bio & contact information to gallery-manager@pcawestford. org. For each image, include the title, dimensions and media. PLEASE NOTE: If you have already submitted materials, you do not need to resubmit. Questions can also be sent to admin@pcawestford.org.
Deadline for new submissions is JUNE 15, 2024!

THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING HAPPENING at the PCA:

 
The PCA is located at 10 Lincoln Street, right on Westford Common. For information, visit pcawestford.org, call (978) 692-6333, or email to admin@pcawestford.org to receive weekly updates!

The PCA will be wrapping up is 2023-24 season in June after a few more special guest visits:
Everyone loves Aidan Scrimgeour’s annual “Charlie Brown Christmas Jazz Concert,” but Aidan's "Mostly Aidans" trio will be in the house on June 8 at 7:30pm with a Duke Ellington tribute concert to ring in the summer! Tickets range from $10-$25. Visit https://parisharts.square.site/pca-jazz-cafe for more information.
The PCA is focusing on supporting local artists, and on June 14, audiences can enjoy a double bill - an eclectic mix of folk/Americana singer-singwriter Tom Richardson and electronic indie funk artist Aaron Bilodeau! Direct ticket link: https://parisharts.square.site/product/6-14-24-tom-richardson-aaron-bilodeau/179
Closing up the season will be the very talented group The Ruta Beggars. Appealing to traditional and progressive acoustic music fans alike, The Ruta Beggars combine bluegrass and early swing to create a timeless act filled with intricate vocal harmonies, fiery instrumentals, and plenty of fun. Direct ticket link: https://parisharts.square.site/product/6-28-24-the-ruta-beggars/178
Coming this summer will be another year of Concerts-on-the-Common.  Pack up your blankets and chairs, and you’re your picnics for these terrific events coming to Westford Common:
  • July 13 - John Ferullo's Open Mic Night Sampler, 2-5pm
  • July 20 - MOMENTUM (Rain date, July 21), 2-4pm
  • August 3 - Common Picking Mini Bluegrass Festival, noon-7pm
  • August 10 - Ed McCarron (Rain date, August 11), 2:30-4:30pm

  • THURSDAY NIGHT SING & JAM
    Thursdays, 7-10pm. Bring your instrument and/or voice and join the Sing & Jam fun! $5 suggested cover for drop-in programs. This is an on-going weekly event. Coming up…6/13, 6/20, 6/27, 7/4, 7/11, 7/25, 8/1, 8/8, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29.


    OPEN MIC NIGHT: June 9th
    Held on 2nd & 4th Sundays in a month at 6:30 pm during the season. Open Mic Night is for all ages and levels of experience. Sing a song, play a tune, or speak your truth. The mic is on and everyone is welcome. Special guests will also stop by for some added fun. $5 suggested cover for all drop-in programs. Future Date: 6/23 (Final event until Fall).


    3rd FRIDAY BLUEGRASS JAM: June 21st
    A community event open to the public, 7-10pm. Bring your banjo, fiddle, voice, or just come to watch  every 3rd Friday in a month! All are welcome and all have a great time. Future Dates: 7/19, 8/16, 9/20, 10/18, 11/15, 12/20.

FRIENDS of the CHELMSFORD SENIOR CENTER FUNDRAISER
Summer Raffle Americana Fundraiser

 
Just in time for the 4th of July, this raffle basket is worth more than $400! The basket includes 7 gift certificates for the following local businesses: *Alpine Butcher* Stop and Shop* Summer Street Grocers* Centre Deli* Jimmy’s Pizza* Sully’s Ice Cream* Princeton Station plus all the fixings for a summer gathering…paper products, condiments, S’mores ingredients, beverages, snacks, frisbees and more. Tickets are available at the Chelmsford Senior Center Treasure Shop – 1 Ticket $5.00 – 5 Tickets $20.00. Drawing will be held Monday, July 1, 2024. Thank you to these local businesses who contributed to this fundraiser!

INDIAN HERITAGE NIGHT at POLAR PARK

 
On Friday, June 7, 2024, the Worcester Red Sox will welcome the Rochester Red Wings at 6:45pm EST for Indian Heritage Night at Polar Park. The WooSox invite fans to enjoy various aspects of the Indian culture through music, cuisine, entertainment, and ceremonies. Gates open at 5:45 PM and pre-game recognitions will start at 6:15 PM.
On the DCU Plaza, fans can enjoy the sounds of Indian music provided by DJ Raunik as they enter the ballpark. Our on-field celebration of Indian culture will be initiated by a performance by Ekta Dance Academy. From June 7th – 9th, fans can indulge in a variety of authentic Indian cuisine provided by Northborough restaurant, Peppers.
The WooSox thank the India Society of Worcester (ISW) for their support in planning and promoting Indian Heritage Day. ISW strives to form an effective and cohesive group with the objective of retaining, facilitating, and fostering the cultural heritage of India. As one of New England’s most vibrant Indian associations, ISW adds to the cultural diversity of the region and symbolizes a glimpse into Indian heritage for the local Worcester community.
Operated entirely by volunteers that represent all regions of India, ISW will be recognized as the night’s Heart of Worcester.
Mcc college for teens chelmsford  westford 6.7.24

TEENS GET an EARLY START to COLLEGE & CAREER EXPLORATION this SUMMER at MCC

This summer at Middlesex Community College, teens can get an early start on the college experience. Through MCC’s Community Education & Training division, students in the College for Teens program can explore the engineering and public service pathways and gain skills to develop future academic and professional interests.
“With our College for Teens programs, young students get the chance to learn about different careers and pathways they can take,” said Audrey Nahabedian, MCC’s Dean of Workforce Education. “In addition to learning more about a specific subject, they freshen up valuable skills, gain confidence, and develop helpful habits they can use as they continue their education.”
For students interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), an Engineering/Computer Aided Design (CAD) course introduces high school students to the field. The class allows students to explore skills, values and life goals, while teaching tools, such as hand-on printed circuit board layout, 3D printers, and software programs.
Taught by MCC professor Angel Escalona, the class will also provide information on current jobs and career mapping. The class will run from 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from June 3 to June 12 on the Bedford Campus.
In the Public Service Career Exploration class, students learn about careers in a variety of fields, including law enforcement agencies, court system, corrections, emergency response services and victim services. High school students will explore how their interests, personality, skills, values and life goals match with their strengths in the public service industry.
In addition, students will go on a walking field trip and tour to the Lowell Police Department and Lowell Justice Center. The Public Service class will be taught by MCC professor Marisol Nobrega from 9 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Monday through Thursday, July 8 to July 11 on the Lowell Campus.
“We hope to spark students’ interest in the criminal and social justice program and show them that our program is very unique because we offer several paid and unpaid internships, networking opportunities and field trips,” Nobrega said. “I plan to take the teens to visit to the courthouse as well as the police station. I believe criminal justice has many valuable professions and hope to inspire the youth into seeking a degree and career path in one.” Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/careertraining/ for more information and to register.

HABITAT for HUMANITY NORTH CENTRAL MASSACHUSETTS AWARDED CUMMINGS GRANT

Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts is one of 150 local nonprofits that will share in $30 million through Cummings Foundation’s major annual grants program. The affordable housing organization was selected from a total of 715 applicants during a competitive review process. It will receive $50,000 this year for its work in Middlesex County.
Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts (Habitat NCM), formed in 1987, builds and repairs affordable homes in thirty cities and towns along route 2 in north central Massachusetts.  The funds will be used to build new, deeply affordable, and energy-efficient homes and repair existing affordable homes for low-income families in Middlesex County.
“The need for affordable housing has never been greater”, states Carolyn Read, executive director of Habitat NCM. “This funding will help us to build more homes faster for families in western Middlesex county.”
The Cummings $30 Million Grant Program primarily supports Massachusetts nonprofits that are based in and serve Middlesex, Essex, and Suffolk counties, plus six communities in Norfolk County: Brookline, Dedham, Milton, Needham, Quincy, and Wellesley.
Through this place-based initiative, Cummings Foundation aims to give back in the areas where it owns commercial property. Its buildings are all managed, at no cost to the Foundation, by its affiliate, Cummings Properties. This Woburn-based commercial real estate firm leases and manages 11 million square feet of debt-free space, the majority of which exclusively benefits the Foundation.
“Greater Boston is fortunate to have a robust, dedicated, and highly capable nonprofit sector that supports and enhances the community in myriad ways,” said Cummings Foundation executive director and trustee Joyce Vyriotes. “The entire Cummings organization is thankful for their daily work to help all our neighbors thrive.”
The majority of the grant decisions were made by nearly 100 community volunteers. They worked across a variety of committees to review and discuss the proposals and then, together, determine which requests would be funded. Among these community volunteers were business and nonprofit leaders, mayors, college presidents, and experts in areas such as finance and DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion).
“We believe strongly that grant decisions will be more equitable when made by a diverse group of community members,” said Vyriotes. “We’re incredibly grateful to the dozens of individuals who participated in our democratized philanthropic process.”
The Foundation and volunteers first identified 150 organizations to receive three-year grants of up to $300,000 each. The winners included first-time recipients as well as nonprofits that had previously received Cummings grants. Twenty-five of this latter group of repeat recipients were then selected by a panel of community volunteers to have their grants elevated to 10-year awards ranging from $300,000 to $1 million each.
This year’s grant recipients represent a wide variety of causes, including housing and food insecurity, workforce development, immigrant services, social justice, education, and mental health services. The nonprofits are spread across 49 different cities and towns.
Cummings Foundation has now awarded $500 million to greater Boston nonprofits. The complete list of this year’s 150 grant winners, plus nearly 2,000 previous recipients, is available at www.CummingsFoundation.org.
About Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts
Habitat NCM is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing decent and affordable homes for those who cannot qualify for conventional mortgages, as well as doing Critical Home Repairs throughout the 30-town region. Habitat NCM relies on volunteers to accomplish its mission and is supported only by local funding and donations.
About Cummings Foundation
Woburn-based Cummings Foundation, Inc. was established in 1986 by Joyce and Bill Cummings of Winchester, MA and has grown to be one of the largest private foundations in New England. The Foundation directly operates its own charitable subsidiaries, including New Horizons retirement communities, in Marlborough and Woburn, and Cummings Health Sciences, LLC. Additional information is available at www.CummingsFoundation.org.

CHELMSFORD MARKET on the COMMON

Saturdays June 1 – August 10, 11 am – 2 pm
Free
Farmers and artisans market of local vendors offering fresh local food, handmade crafts, and more at the Chelmsford Market on the Common. Each week brings a different assortment of vendors, so you’ll find something new no matter how many times you visit.

CHELMSFORD TOASTMASTERS OPEN HOUSE

Chelmsford Toastmasters is an organization founded for the purpose of helping their members become confident communicators, public speakers, and leaders.
Be it a teacher, student, manager, or local member of your community, the Chelmsford Toastmasters strive to lift up all walks of life who want to achieve their goals!
Celebrate their 45th Anniversary by joining them at their Open House on June 13th!
Date: Thursday, June 13
Time: 7-8 PM
Format: OPEN HOUSE at Chelmsford Public Library-McCarthy Meeting Room
25 Boston Rd, Chelmsford MA

BRIDGES® by EPOCH at WESTFORD to be AWARDED PURPLE FLAG for DEMENTIA CARE™ ACCREDITATION on JUNE 11, & 10th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

WHEN: Tuesday, June 11, 2 PM
WHERE: 108 Littleton Road, Westford, MA
WHAT: Purple Flag accreditation and 10-year anniversary event for Bridges® by EPOCH in Westford.
EPOCH Senior Living, a premier provider of exceptional senior living services throughout the Northeast, announces its memory care assisted living facility, Bridges® by EPOCH in Westford, has earned the Purple Flag for Dementia Care™ accreditation. Purple Flag for Dementia Care™ is an accreditation program that recognizes excellence in caring for people living with Alzheimer's Disease and other dementias. Upon receiving the accreditation, providers receive the distinctive purple flag to fly proudly. Bridges® by EPOCH in Westford will also be celebrating its 10th anniversary. CONTACT: Victoria Hochman (914) 762-1900 vicky@thompson-bender.com

HELP KEEP CHELMSFORD CLEAN

For Chelmsford Residents Only:
June 10th from 9am-4pm at the Chelmsford Health Department. Dispose of your used medical sharps safely and responsibly! Bring your used needles, syringes, and lancets to our collection event. Our team will ensure proper disposal to protect the community and the environment. Help keep Chelmsford clean and safe!

CHELMSFORD CHILDREN’S CHORUS

For their inaugural 2024 - 2025 season, The Chelmsford Children’s Chorus is accepting dedicated singers from Chelmsford and surrounding communities. We are excited the chorus is beginning their journey at The Chelmsford Center for the Arts.
Auditions are not required, but students should participate in their school’s chorus, or at minimum, be enrolled in a general music course.
Starting in September, the chorus will rehearse on Thursdays from 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM at the CCA.
The registration fee for the season (September - April) is $295.
Finance is never a barrier to participation. There are a few scholarships available thru the generosity of the Dacey Zouzas Endowment for the Arts. Please contact the chorus if you require financial support: info@chelmsfordchildrenschorus.org
More information about the chorus can be found on their website: www.chelmsfordchildrenschorus.org

The CCA is the PLACE to PLAY!


Address: 1A North Road, Chelmsford, MA, 01824
Phone: (978) 250-3780
Email: CCA@chelmsfordma.gov

UPCOMING EVENTS AT THE CCA:
Tickets are now available for our 2nd Annual Ten Minute Play Festival! Last year sold out so get your tickets now! 12 local playwrights, 12 directors and great local actors! Come support the CCA's own Community Theatre, The Playground! Produced by Donna DeWitt and Lauren Cochran.
June 7, 8 and 9th - Friday thru Sunday Our 2nd Annual Ten Minute Play Festival!
June 7 - Friday - BROADWAY KARAOKE! - Special time - 9:00 p.m. (come to the ten minute plays then join us in the Cabaret Cafe after the show for some singing! Mocktails and Cocktails available! $3.00 entry.
June 13 - The Toastmaster's Open House Event at the Chelmsford Public Library - they meet at the CCA for regular meetings!
June 13 - Thursday 7:00 PM Open Mic Night! Free admission! Donations accepted!
June 14 - Friday 7:00 pm. Karaoke Sober Edition! Sponsored by The Chelmsford Health Department! Great mocktails and fun time! Free admission!
NEW! Chelmsford Children's Chorus
NEW! Summer Visual Art Classes for ages 9 and up! Begins June 25th!

SUMMER VISUAL ARTS CLASSES:
Nature Art - Session 1
Tuesdays 1:30-3:30 PM
4 Weeks - June 25 - July 16
​Ages 9-13
Cost: $120/session
All materials supplied for class

Nature Art - Session 2
Tuesdays 1:30-3:30 PM
4 Weeks - July 23 - August 13
​Ages 9-13
Cost: $120/session
All materials supplied for class

Botanical Drawing
Tuesdays 3:30-5:30 PM
8 Weeks - June 25 - August 13
​Ages 15+
Cost: $185/session
All materials supplied for class